Royals’ boss was part of the Manchester United team who had some iconic battles with the Gunners between 1998 and 2001, including the famous FA Cup semi-final victory at Villa Park in 1999.

And as he gets set to face off alongside Wenger in the EFL Cup fourth round this evening at the Emirates (7.45pm kick-off), Stam says he has total respect for what he has achieved during 20 years at the helm in north London.